Flight of a Lifetime
Miracles Do Happen
From a Glasgow Coma Score
Book Summary →
Flight of a Lifetime
From a Glasgow Coma Score of 5 and “death-like state” to reclaiming life through grit, humour, and unbreakable community.
As Watling writes, “My accident defined who I am now… I will not waste the second chance that I have been given.” Discover why miracles do happen, and what Philip is up to now, in this uplifting, unputdownable read.
On December 9, 1994, Philip Watling’s life was irrevocably changed when a “simple” walk to work ended in a horrific collision with a car and a bus. What follows is a miraculous tale of resurrection, fueled by the rapid intervention of London’s Helicopter Emergency Medical Service (HEMS), which airlifted him to the Royal London Hospital within the critical “golden hour,” saving his life against all odds.
Blending poignant reflections on life’s fragility with laugh-out-loud anecdotes from his rehabilitation, this book stands apart for its focus on finding hope and humour in the darkest circumstances.
Perfect for fans of memoirs like “The Diving Bell and the Butterfly” or “Brain on Fire,” “Flight of a Lifetime: Miracles Do Happen” is an inspiring autobiography that will make the audience laugh, cry, and reconsider what’s possible.
What readers say about the book🧐
Some stories do more than recount survival, they quietly redefine what resilience means. Flight of a Lifetime by Philip Watling is one of those rare memoirs that lingers with the reader long after the final page, not because it seeks sympathy, but because it offers perspective, gratitude, and hope. Philip Watling’s life changed in an instant at the age of twenty-three, when a devastating accident left him critically injured and facing the possibility of permanent brain damage. What follows is not simply a recovery story, but a deeply human reflection on identity, patience, faith, and the power of support. His account of losing, then painstakingly re-learning balance, speech, movement, and confidence is presented with honesty and humility, allowing readers to fully grasp both the fear and the quiet victories along the way. What makes this memoir especially compelling is Philip’s mindset. Rather than being defined by the accident, he reframes it as a turning point that led him toward strength, self-discovery, and compassion for others. His search for his biological mother, his appreciation for medical professionals and loved ones, and his determination to help people in his community all give the book emotional depth and authenticity. The message is clear, healing is not linear, but purpose can still be found. Scarlett Jensen’s review for Readers’ Favourite captures the heart of the book beautifully, emphasising the encouragement, gratitude, and inner peace that emerge from Philip’s journey. The writing is accessible, sincere, and grounded, making it particularly valuable for readers who have experienced trauma, serious injury, or moments where life felt abruptly rerouted.
James Hond
About the Author →
Philip Watling
Philip Watling lives in Milton Keynes. Unable to work he still manages to do some. As a Support Worker for an autistic man he spends a few hours a week walking the man – even though walking can bring pain to his knee. Paramount in Philip’s mind though is caring for others. This he also does by chatting to lots of people – on line and off – trying to help as many as he can. He also helps out in the local community including volunteering at the community fridge. When not doing that much of his week is spent at the gym, swimming and doing his own therapy. He also regularly meets up with friends – often for food! There may even be another book in him fighting to get out! Ultimately he wants the message of peace and friendship to pervade society.
Interests
“Reading, writing, walking and talking” have been down on his CV for many a year though reading is now difficult due to damage to his eyes and talking can be problematic due to damage to his pharynx, both from his car accident. He does like talking though! He has a love of animals although doesn’t get to be around them as much as he’d like. He enjoys his garden, though mainly when it is sunny! Relaxing in the evening watching TV is always nice; sadly he usually falls asleep for a few hours before going to bed, missing the end of the programme…
Favourite Music
Adele, Billy Joel, Blondie, Bruce Hornsby and the Range, Bruckner, Clannad, Debussy, Don Henley, Elton John, Enya, Gary Moore, Genesis, Huey Lewis and the News, Jean Michelle Jarre, Joan Armatrading, John Parr, Kate Bush, Mike Oldfield, Paul McCartney, Peter Gabriel, Phil Collins, Phillip Glass, Queen, Spandau Ballet, Suzanne Vega, The Eagles, The Stranglers, U2
Favourite Books
Flight of a Lifetime: miracles do happen (obviously!), any books by Frederick Forsyth, The Mists of Avalon, Bodyguard of Lies
Higher Education
- Queen Mary and Westfield College, University of London.
- Zoology/Ecology. 1989 – 1992
- Grade: Bachelor of Science (Honours)
Activities and societies:
Reading and writing, walking and talking, cooking and eating, gardening, horse riding. National Geographic, Mensa
Work
Support worker, Ipsos Consultant, and Author.